Parkies on top at first-ever DHL sevens
Schools rugby
Organiser Wessel Witbooi hopes the tournament could ultimately spark more growth at junior and senior levels.
The DHL Rugby Sevens tournament wrapped up over the weekend at the Suiderhof Primary School’s DHL Rugby Stadium.The tournament brought together young athletes from four different age groups, namely under-10, U11, U12 and U13.
Over two days, teams engaged in a round-robin format for the U10, U11 and U12 categories, with matches kicking off on Friday.
The U13 category, however, featured a more competitive group and knockout rounds on Saturday.
Parents turned out in large numbers to support their children, contributing to a lively atmosphere. After a series of closely contested matches, medals were awarded to the top teams for first, second and third places.
The champions in each age group also received a floating trophy engraved with their school’s names as 2024 title holders.
The tournament also featured girls' rugby with an exhibition match between Suiderhof Primary School and Pionierspark Primary School that went in favour of Pionierspark.
Sport Wrap caught up with tournament coordinator Wessel Witbooi, who expressed his delight at the success of the tournament.
“This is the first DHL Sevens tournament hosted here, and we aim to make it an annual event with more schools involved. It’s a great way to gradually reintroduce sevens rugby in the country and serve as a platform to support our national teams, both junior and senior,” Witbooi stated.
He recognized the teamwork that went into organizing the tournament, thanking parents, sponsors, teachers and especially the young players for their contributions.
Winners:
U10: 1st Parkies II, 2nd Parkies I, 3rd Suiderhof.
U11: 1st Parkies II, 2nd Suiderhof, 3rd Parkies II.
U12: 1st Roots Gymnasium, 2nd St. Joseph, 3rd Suiderhof I.
U13: 1st Parkies I, 2nd Roots Gymnasium, 3rd Danie Joubert Combined School (Mariental).